A few months back, PNCA started a maker space – but rather than restricting access to just students, they (they, in this case, being Exec Director Nandini Ranganathan) did something very smart…  and actually somewhat unprecedented.  They opened the doors to the entire community.

Yes, you heard right – anyone can apply for a swipe card that allows you to come in and use the space and tools available, day or night.  With the idea that you will then contribute to the offerings and the community that’s building there, as you work on your projects.  Osmosis in it’s most pure form!

It’s quite a tasty collection of gear, and it continues to get better.  Computer workstations decked out with maker software, the prerequisite awesome 3D printers, a laser cutter, a CNC mill, fun VR setups like HTC Vives, large format printers (paper plotters, that is).  I could go on…

Now, they are taking the next logical step and have launched a series of workshops aimed at bringing together the awesome makers, thinkers, and coders in our ranks.  Of all levels.  Modeling in Blender, tweaking Arduino circuits, collaging light, projection mapping, basics of Unity…   I could go on.  Sorry, I repeat myself more than a laser cutter.  (ba dum dum peeeesh)

If you want in on the fun, you need to check out the full menu here, now.  These workshops are starting up soon, many as soon as next week.

It’s almost enough to turn this VFX “faker” into a maker, that’s for sure!  🙂